A history and international studies degree program gives you the chance to specialize while also getting a first-rate introduction to two different areas and developing a wider range of abilities than you would with a typical single honors degree.
The course’s history component involves studying the past as it is described in written sources. Prehistoric events are those that took place before the invention of writing, and the international studies component enables you to comprehend how important international actors have responded to problems on the global political, economic, and social fronts since the Second World War.
Scope of History and International Studies
The goal of history and international studies is to offer a liberal arts education that is as rich in all-encompassing human experiences as possible. It gives students the chance to research the past not only for its own sake but also for the insights it provides into the present. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on teaching students the characteristics of evidence and how to analyze it. The curriculum is meant to help pupils grow intellectually so they can pursue employment in a variety of fields in the future. While keeping the traditional strengths in the disciplines of African, European, American, and World history, it gives insights into local history, cultural analysis, cultural diversity, methodology, and gender.
The majority of colleges in Nigeria that teach history and international studies do so as a 4-year program with coursework that likely includes political science, economics, sociology, and other related topics. This gives a history and international studies graduate the capabilities needed to pursue professions in a variety of sectors.
Skills Needed for History and International Studies
Language Skills
- Interpreting complex language
- Reading for tone and attitude
- Translating languages/ideas
- Assessing translations and original texts
- Reading and understanding refined ideas
- Identifying complex word patterns and structures
- Comprehending cultural differences as reflected in language
Research / Analytical Skills
- Examining and evaluating evidence
- Assessing theories about societies and cultures
- Learning problems about society and cultures
- Making decisions about social processes and policies
- Requesting analytical questions
- Generating and growing complex, novel ideas
- Compiling and organizing information
- Analyzing data
Interpersonal / Cross-Cultural Skills
- Respecting historical continuity and change
- Elucidating others’ thoughts and ideas
- Comprehending other cultures and beliefs
- Growing sensitivity to numerous viewpoints
Communication Skills
- Presenting and debating ideas
- Listening critically
- Writing clearly
- Convincing people/groups
Career Opportunities for History and International Studies Graduates
Nigerian history and international relations graduates often have three main employment options;
– Public Sector (Government)
– Private Sector
– Non-Profit/NGO
Public Sector
Graduates in history and international relations can work in a variety of important positions in governmental organizations. We provide a list of possible public sector jobs for history and international relations graduates. The list is not by any means complete.
– Research specialists and assistants (at the National Assembly and other institutions of government)
– Elected official in municipal, state, or federal government
– Constituency officers (those employed by state and federal legislators’ constituency offices)
– Congressional Staffers (work as part of administrative support staff, public relations staff, etc. working in the legislative arena, conducting research, creating background studies, drafting bills, monitoring legislation, and setting up expert testimony).
– Foreign Service/Diplomatic Corps (work in the federal government’s embassies, foreign affairs, and diplomatic missions)
– Political scientists (working for organizations, parastatals, etc.)
Private Sector
– Management consulting and investment advisory services (work with investment businesses, offer advice on foreign business, carry out international research, etc.)
– Journalist/Foreign Correspondent (cover one or two international aspects for news organizations and publications)
– Political Scientist/Risk Analyst (compile and analyze political risks in a certain country or area before making investment and business decisions in such locations for investment firms, insurance companies, conglomerates, etc.)
– Corporate lobbyist, who works for national and multinational companies to influence legislation that is beneficial to their industry. This job opportunity is expanding.)
Non Profit/NGO
– Relief Coordinator (work with local and international relief agencies)
– Fundraiser
– Risk Advisor
– International Educator
– Non-Profit Management (run, or head key departments of non-profit institutions)
– Peace and Conflict Resolution (work in local and international agencies concentrated on settling conflicts and encouraging international peace)
– Think Tank/Scholars
– Law & Human Rights (pursue a career in international law and human rights)
– Immigration Specialist
– Journalist
– Language Specialist
– Market Research Analyst
There are some more careers any graduate of History and International Relations can follow which may cut across the above-mentioned three broad areas;
– Archivist
– Demographer
– Diplomat
– Foreign Affairs Analyst/Specialist (could work in NGOs, International, and local media, etc)
Admission Requirements for Studying History and International Studies in Nigeria
To study history and international studies as a course in the majority of Nigerian high schools, you must fulfill certain academic prerequisites. A minimum of five credit level passes in the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (S.S.C.E.) or its equivalent are needed for applicants seeking admission through the Jamb. English language, geography, and government/history should be among them. Some schools additionally require a passing grade in math.
Some schools demand passing grades in English, History, or Government, as well as any two of the following. French, Economics, Geography, and Literature
The English Language is a requirement for this course for the Jamb UTME. In addition, two other arts or social science courses must include history or government. The prerequisites for each school are listed in the Jamb brochure.